In this episode of Channeling Atticus, Matt Green breaks down what to do if you're pulled over for suspicion of DUI, specifically, whether or not you should take a breathalyzer test. Matt explains the key differences between the roadside portable breath test (PBT), which isn't admissible in court, and the official Draeger or Intoximeter test at the station, which can be used against you. He clears up common misconceptions about license suspensions, emphasizing that only refusing the station test, not the PBT, triggers penalties in Alabama. Matt's golden rule is never to argue your case roadside, stay polite, and ask to speak to an attorney. He urges you to act fast after an arrest, as you only have 10 days to appeal a license suspension. The episode's takeaway? Knowing your rights and acting wisely can make a huge difference.

3 Key Listener Takeaways

1. Know The Breath Test Difference: Matt breaks down the crucial distinction between the roadside portable breath test (PBT) and the official evidentiary breathalyzer at the police station (Draeger or Intoximeter DMT). Spoiler: only the station test results can be used against you in court, but both impact your case in different ways.

2. Refusing Isn't One-Size-Fits-All: Refusing the roadside PBT won't cost you your license in Alabama, but refusing the official breath test at the station can—and you only have 10 days to appeal that suspension. The bottom line? Your choices at each stage really matter.

3. Lawyer Up, Don't Duke It Out: When in doubt, ask for an attorney right away and keep conversations on the roadside to a minimum. Matt's golden rule: you can't win a legal argument at your car window, but you can help your defense by staying calm and getting legal advice fast.

Thanks for tuning in to Channeling Atticus! If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to subscribe and share it with a friend—because you never know when someone might need a little legal guidance. For more straightforward advice on real-world legal issues, keep listening to Channeling Atticus for future episodes.

And remember, if you face a DUI or any other legal challenge, don't wait, reach out to Matt Green at the Law Office of Matt Green in Mobile, Alabama. You can visit http://mattgreen.lawyer or call (251) 434-8500 for a free DUI consultation and professional advice tailored to your situation. Stay safe, make good choices, and remember, knowledge is power!